Telesarchus (military commander)

A Telesarchus (Greek: Τελέσαρχος) was a military commander or officer within a Greek city-state, most often used in reference to the army of Mantinea, a city in Arcadia. The specific role and rank of a Telesarchus are not entirely clear due to limited surviving evidence and varying interpretations of ancient texts. He appears to have held a position of authority, potentially commanding a unit of troops or holding a higher-level administrative role within the military structure.

Historical sources indicate that the office of Telesarchus was significant in the military organization of Mantinea. The position is mentioned in accounts of battles and political events involving Mantinea, suggesting that the Telesarchus played a crucial role in military decision-making and execution. While precise details about the Telesarchus’ duties and responsibilities are scarce, evidence points to him being a key figure in the command structure of the Mantinean army. The office is distinct from other military titles more commonly associated with Greek city-states, such as strategos (general) or taxiarchos (commander of a taxis, a unit of hoplites).